You’ve likely heard the advice “enjoy your wedding day” before. I recognize it may seem like a broken record, or it can seem easier said than done when you’re in the most stressful stages of planning.  But I truly believe that when you stay focused on what is most important, that you CAN not only make the most of the day, but enjoy every second. I also believe that you can weave in special details and bits of your personality that will shine through in your imagery for years to come.

I’m going to break down two elements of the day that will help you make the most of this once in a lifetime experience!

• Timelines/Wedding day flow

• Incorporating Personality & Heirloom Details

Wedding Timeline Tips

Your timeline dictates the flow of your day. You absolutely HAVE to put one in place in order for it to flow smoothly. If you don’t have a planner, you’re likely going to hear this advice from your venue manager, your DJ, your caterer and most definitely from me!    

Every vendor knows what will work best for them in terms of timing and flow, so having someone who can aggregate all of that info and create a nice flow (ahem, that would be a wedding coordinator or planner) will help your day run seamlessly, despite any hiccups (which are inevitable). P.S. I am happy to refer you to the perfect planners and coordinators if you don’t know where to start!!

Within your timeline, ideally, you’ll have a shot list of important people and photos (see a sample below). Now, don’t get carried away. I don’t mean exact poses- I’ll take care of that1 I mean a list of all of the people and groups that you want to be sure to get images of. From groups of friends from college to you with your parent’s friends. Having a quick shot list of all the critical captures will help keep things running smoothly. This also acts as a great reference guide if we need to make some swaps due to Aunt Jane pulling a disappearing act or Grandpa Ned needing to take a quick nap. 

Run through the wedding day in your mind. Think about the flow of the day and anticipate the things that may come up with each. Again, if you have a planner or coordinator, they will be able to help you identify some of the issues that could come up. 

You’re going to need to eat & drink on the wedding day. 

Your guests might need a bandaid or some ibuprofen. Keep an emergency kit basket in the bathroom.

Think through the scenarios and how you want to be cared for, as well as how you want your guests to feel. 

Always check the weather. It could be chilly or really hot. It might rain. If there’s a chance of rain, check with your photographer (that’s me) or venue if they have clear umbrellas or order them on Amazon(Prime is a wonderful thing)! 

Didn’t just hire a DJ for the reception- you’ll need a mic for your vows so guests don’t missed the vows. After all, It’s the most important part of your day.

Do your best to anticipate & plan for these things. Then on the wedding day, If you don’t have a planner (and even if you do), you’ll already have a plan B!

Assign the to-dos to your Type A bridesmaids or family. Assign someone else to worry your worries. Put your phone away. You’ve just spent the last 8-15 months planning the perfect day.
RELAX.  Enjoy every little minute. Just have fun.   

And lastly, if something does not go according to your plan, chances are you’re the only one who knew about it so don’t stress and just enjoy! As your photographer, I promise me and my team will do whatever is needed to help your day go smoothly and perfectly according to your vision and we will be right there capturing it all for you and your partner to enjoy for years to come, on your walls or in an album!

Incorporate Heirloom Details & Personality

Now, this might be my favorite subject! Personally, on my wedding day, I included my grandfather’s tie pin with his initial in my bouquet. I also wore red nail polish - which is true to my personality, but also something that my mom did on her wedding day (that I didn’t know about at the time, but looking back, feels so special).

Consider a memorial table for parents, grandparents, friends that have passed on. Place a candle, photo or flower on an empty seat to symbolize their presence in your relationship & life. 

Include a personalized cake topper. Serve your cake on a custom plate with matching forks. Make your favor a jar of jam, made from your grandma’s recipe. Or give everyone a cookie from your favorite restaurant. 

Serve a menu with all your favorite things. End the night with a late-night snack of popcorn (if that’s your thing). Or maybe include your favorite food truck munchies. 

When it’s all said and done, I urge you to create an album of the day. Even when technology changes,  you’ll have a tangible item that can be passed down for generations to come. They’ll enjoy flipping through your wedding photos and reflecting on your love as much as you two do!


*Second Shoot for Love and Light Weddings